EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing
EMDR uses bilateral stimulation to support the brain’s natural ability to process intrusive traumatic experiences, anxiety, and emotional distress
EMDR Therapy for Trauma Symptoms
Experiencing a distressing or overwhelming event does not always lead to lasting difficulties, but when the nervous system is unable to fully process what happened, the effects can persist. Many people experience trauma-related symptoms such as distressing emotions, physical tension, or intrusive thoughts. Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured, evidence-based therapy designed to support the brain in processing distressing experiences so they no longer feel as overwhelming.
Research and clinical experience explore how integrating Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy with EMDR may provide additional support in trauma processing (Gelinas, 2018; Forgash & Knipe, 2007).
How EMDR and IFS Work Together
IFS is an approach that acknowledges that we all have different parts of ourselves—some of which hold pain and others that try to protect us from it. For many people, these protective parts develop ways to prevent overwhelming emotions, which can sometimes make trauma processing more challenging.
By integrating IFS into EMDR, therapy can:
✔ Support emotional regulation – Identifying and working with protective parts may help individuals feel safer and more prepared for EMDR.
✔ Reduce distress during trauma processing – When protective parts feel heard and acknowledged, there is less resistance to processing trauma.
✔ Foster a compassionate inner dialogue – EMDR is not about forcing distressing memories to change, but about providing space for healing at a pace that respects the person’s needs.
Research and Clinical Insights
Research and case studies suggest that integrating IFS with EMDR may help reduce emotional overwhelm and dissociation during trauma processing (Forgash & Knipe, 2007). In cases of complex trauma, this approach can offer a structured yet flexible way to support trauma processing while maintaining a sense of stability (Schwartz & Sweezy, 2020).
The EMDR Process with an IFS-Informed Approach
EMDR follows an eight-phase model, and integrating IFS within this process can offer additional support at key stages:
Phase 1 (History Taking) & Phase 2 (Preparation)
✔ Recognizes protective parts that may hesitate to engage in trauma processing.
✔ Ensures emotional readiness and safety before proceeding with deeper trauma work.
Reprocessing Phases (Phases 3-7)
✔ Uses IFS techniques to help navigate any emotional blocks that arise.
✔ Encourages a collaborative process between the therapist, the client, and their internal system.
Phase 8 (Evaluation & Closure)
✔ Ensures that different parts of the person’s system feel settled and supported as healing progresses.
This combined approach allows EMDR to be applied in a way that is gentle, trauma-informed, and responsive to each person's needs.
Can EMDR Be Delivered Online?
Research suggests that online EMDR can be effective for many individuals, with adaptations such as screen-based tracking tools or self-tapping.
How Many Sessions Might Be Needed?
The number of sessions varies depending on individual circumstances. Some individuals experience progress within 8-12 sessions, while others benefit from a longer, phased approach depending on their personal circumstances and the complexity of their experiences.
✔ Some individuals notice shifts early in the process, while others benefit from more preparation.
✔ IFS-informed EMDR ensures that the process moves at a pace that respects the person’s needs.
✔ Sometimes, as trauma processing unfolds, new layers of experience may emerge, requiring further support.
Healing is not a linear process, and we aim to provide a supportive and adaptive approach to each person’s journey.
Is EMDR with IFS Right for You?
Deciding on a therapeutic approach is a personal process. We offer a collaborative and supportive space where we explore what feels right for you.
✔ You do not have to relive traumatic experiences in detail.
✔ Therapy moves at a pace that respects your nervous system’s capacity to heal.
✔ Sessions are designed to support safety, self-compassion, and gradual healing.
If you’re interested in exploring EMDR for trauma, anxiety, or emotional distress, an IFS-informed approach to EMDR may provide a supportive and effective way forward.
References
Forgash, C., & Knipe, J. (2007). Healing the Heart of Trauma and Dissociation with EMDR and Ego State Therapy.
Gelinas, D. (2018). Integrating IFS with EMDR to Treat Complex Trauma. Available in trauma-focused therapy literature.
Lanius, R., Paulsen, S., & Corrigan, F. (2014). Neurobiology and Treatment of Traumatic Dissociation.
Schwartz, R., & Sweezy, M. (2020). Internal Family Systems Therapy.